Eric van der Woodsen

Eric is the troubled younger brother of Serena and heir to the van der Woodsen fortune. His suicide attempt is the catalyst for Serena's homecoming. His homosexuality is later revealed in Season 1 to everyone, after his boyfriend Asher pretends to have a relationship with Jenny Humphrey. His friendship with Jenny is repaired after she apologizes in the beginning of Season 2. They soon become best friends through the second season.